"Secrets and Lies" Review

"Secrets and Lies" (142 min) Directed by Mike Leigh Starring; Brenda Blethyn, Claire Rushbrook, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Phyllis Logan, Timothy Spall If ever there were doubts that the sabotage of a nuclear family unit would be diluted when brought to screen, let them be dispelled now. Enter the 21st century, of which is trademarked by the social realism of the domestic scene. Welcome to the lives of a dysfunctional family whence the dark undertones of tension are …

…irony. Mark Leigh effectively portrays changing self, as the secrets and lies of each character are revealed, only now can they embrace the positive effects of their changes. This film combines the realism of an ordinary situation with a compelling story of a dysfunctional family. It is well composed, effectively directed with its simplicity and triumphant in its implication - Changing self is a process which is challenging but necessary for our growth and development.